Martha Argerich, Evgeny Kissin, James Levine, and Mikhail Pletnev – Bach’s Concerto for 4 Pianos BWV 1065 at Verbier

One of the most thrilling and exceptional moments in the classical music world was captured at the Verbier Festival, where four legendary pianists—Martha Argerich, Evgeny Kissin, James Levine, and Mikhail Pletnev—joined forces for an unforgettable performance of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Concerto for 4 Pianos in A minor, BWV 1065.

This performance is not only a dazzling display of technical virtuosity but also a testament to the collaborative spirit of these four iconic artists. Each pianist brings their unique style and interpretive flair to the work, creating a performance that is both thrilling and harmonious, blending their individual voices into a seamless ensemble.

Bach’s Concerto for 4 Pianos BWV 1065:

This concerto, originally transcribed by Bach from a concerto by Antonio Vivaldi, is a rare and striking piece. It allows the performers to shine individually and as a group, with Bach’s intricate counterpoint creating a lively interplay between the four pianists. The work demands a balance of precision and expressiveness, with each pianist weaving in and out of the texture, taking turns leading and blending into the collective sound.

The performance at the Verbier Festival is particularly remarkable because of the sheer star power of the performers. Martha Argerich, a revered piano virtuoso known for her fiery passion and commanding presence, is paired with Evgeny Kissin, who is known for his technical brilliance and poetic depth. James Levine, the legendary conductor and pianist, brings his profound understanding of orchestral color and timing to the ensemble. Mikhail Pletnev, another virtuoso pianist and conductor, brings his meticulous precision and unique interpretative qualities to the piece.

The Verbier Festival:

The Verbier Festival, held in the Swiss Alps, is renowned for its gathering of world-class musicians and its celebration of exceptional talent. The intimate yet grand setting of the festival hall amplifies the sound of the four pianos, and the acoustics of the space allow for the intricate textures of Bach’s composition to bloom and flourish.

The Performance:

From the very first notes, the chemistry between the four pianists is evident. The precision with which they navigate the complex counterpoint of Bach’s composition is nothing short of extraordinary. The interplay between the pianists is both energetic and expressive, with each performer bringing their personality into their part of the music while maintaining an impressive cohesion with the others.

Argerich’s fiery passion and dynamic touch are balanced by Kissin’s elegance and lyrical phrasing. Levine’s disciplined approach and Pletnev’s meticulousness bring a sense of grandeur and richness to the performance. The work flows effortlessly through the movements, showcasing both individual virtuosity and a collective musical dialogue that is the hallmark of a great ensemble.

The performance builds to thrilling heights, with moments of deep musical intensity, followed by sections of lighter, more playful exchanges. The four pianists, as if in conversation, create an astonishing balance of power and delicacy, reflecting the genius of Bach’s composition and the virtuosity of each individual performer.

The Legacy of the Performance:

This performance of Bach’s Concerto for 4 Pianos at Verbier stands as a monumental musical achievement, captured in a moment where four of the greatest pianists of the 20th and 21st centuries came together to celebrate the beauty of Bach’s music. It’s a performance that will forever be remembered not only for the technical brilliance on display but for the way in which these four artists created something greater than the sum of their parts, blending their individual voices into a sublime musical experience.